The increasing demand for more energy efficient home is largely due to two main reasons, changing government regulations, and the desire of homeowners to be more environmentally responsible. In 2017 this trend has continued to gain momentum, so there is every reason to believe it will be the norm for years to come. Here are a few ways to become a part of this movement.
- Change Your Windows: many modern windows are effective at keeping some amount of UV radiation out of the home. These low emissivity windows have a special coating to achieve this purpose. They will keep out the hat but let in light for a bright interior. The end result is a cooler home and lowered cooling bills. The heat-blocking feature is available in different grades so you can select the one that best suits your building.
- Get Your Home Energy Star Rated: if you want to lower your energy usage, you need to know how much your home is consuming. Currently, more homeowners are seeking the Energy Star rating for all appliances in their homes. This can be a challenge, but with the right purchases, and proper management of water usage, the HVAC system and efficient lighting, it is possible to get this rating.
- Control Your Water Usage: while water leaks in homes account for much of the annual losses, in some cases it is the utility company that is at fault. Invest in a smart meter to monitor your usage and identify flaws in your system. These meters help you to decide the best tie to carry out certain chores or to take a shower. They can pick up leaks, and tell users when the flow of water has become uneven.
- Get a new HVAC System: maintaining a comfortable temperature inside the home can be a big contributor to your monthly expenses. Outdated furnaces and air conditioning are less efficient than modern products. Your heating and cooling bills may also rise due to air leaks through poor ductwork or worn window seals. New equipment will be expensive, but you will reap significant saving in a few years.
- Switch to LED: if you haven’t yet changed out all your lighting to LED, now is the time to get it done. LED bulbs use 80% less energy than incandescent bulbs, and they last much longer.
Many new home plans contain energy efficient features, but you can still make changes to your existing home to save money and to decrease your carbon footprint. Give us a call at 407-316-8544 if you’re in the process of designing a new home with energy efficiency in mind. We’ll help you choose the best options for reaching that goal.